In Montreal’s industrial Ahuntsic neighborhood, a former textile factory has been transformed into a technological marvel: a hydroponic farm producing over 1,000 kilograms of strawberries each month, regardless of the season. This operation, spearheaded by 25-year-old entrepreneur Ophelia Sarakinis and her team at Ferme Gush, represents a groundbreaking approach to sustainable urban farming.
A New Face of Urban Agriculture
Launched in December 2023, Ferme Gush leverages a vertical farming system spread over six levels, cultivating 15,000 strawberry plants simultaneously. The farm operates in three separate chambers, ensuring a constant cycle of growth and harvest. LED lighting and fully controlled environmental conditions allow for uninterrupted production.
This innovative setup not only guarantees fresh strawberries daily but also ensures minimal waste. The hydroponic system eliminates the need for disposable soil substrates, a practice often associated with traditional greenhouse operations. Instead, the strawberries grow in water-nutrient solutions, with all inputs meticulously monitored and adjusted to maintain plant health.
Challenges and Sustainability
Despite its promise, this farming method poses unique risks. “Strawberries are highly sensitive,” explains Sarakinis. “Over- or under-adjusting the nutrient solution can jeopardize the entire crop.” The absence of soil as a buffer increases vulnerability, but advanced technology helps monitor and optimize conditions, minimizing errors.
Sustainability is at the core of this endeavor. By recycling water and nutrients, the farm reduces its environmental footprint. Additionally, strict biosafety protocols—such as controlled access and protective clothing—allow pesticide-free cultivation. This approach has successfully limited pest outbreaks, with occasional challenges like aphids managed using natural predators.
Economic Viability and Market Impact
While initial investments exceeded $3 million, Sarakinis remains optimistic about the farm’s profitability. All harvested strawberries are sold daily to local restaurants, independent grocers, and through LUFA Farms’ basket delivery service. “We’re not profitable yet, but we’re on track. We’re giving ourselves a few years to achieve that,” she notes.
Vertical farming has emerged globally as a potential solution to the growing demand for local, pesticide-free produce. According to a report by Grand View Research, the vertical farming market is projected to reach $31 billion by 2030, with North America leading adoption rates. Urban farms like Ferme Gush exemplify this shift, offering fresh produce while reducing dependency on traditional agricultural spaces.
Ferme Gush illustrates the potential of urban farming to address modern agricultural challenges. By combining sustainability with technological innovation, it offers a scalable model for year-round production of high-demand crops like strawberries. As more cities explore urban farming, the success of such ventures could redefine how we think about food production in the 21st century.
